Our Values and Objectives

Values

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From Article III, Section A of the Bylaws of the Beta Chi Chapter of Phi Kappa Sigma Fraternity:

We commit, first and foremost, to the value of Brotherhood, the fundamental connection that holds our members together. The members of our Chapter consider themselves part of a close family and regardless of circumstance, adversity, or challenge, that family holds together, helps its members succeed, and endures from the moment of its conception until death.

We commit to the value of Trust, the foundation of a relationship based on a belief in oneself as well as others, which is earned and strengthened through experience. The value of trust is found in our reliance on each other and enables an open comfort in interacting with brothers.

We commit to the value of Honor, staying true to a set of higher standards and morals in the face of adversity. Membership in Phi Kappa Sigma means a commitment to leading an honorable life.

We commit to the value of Respect, which begins with yourself and the practice of the golden rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." This statement is the acceptance of the ideals of others. In order to move forward as a brotherhood, we must continue to consider each other's viewpoints.

We commit to the value of Knowledge, the acquisition of thought, theory and principles following in the footsteps of our founding fathers in accordance with our oath of brotherhood. With this knowledge we will come closer to self-discovery, the improvement of society and the translation of knowledge into power.

We commit to the value of Wisdom, a virtue gained through experiences of self and others. Wisdom is the application of knowledge and past experiences to make decisions regardless of the situation. Through sharing wisdom, a bond is formed between young and old, teacher and student; this bond is what brings us together.

We commit to the value of Responsibility, by being reliable in the fulfillment of the objectives of our Fraternity and our personal obligations, enduring the consequences of our actions.

We commit to the value of Integrity, our inner foundation for holding true to our values of trust, honor, respect, knowledge, wisdom, and responsibility that guides us to make the best decisions.

As we have seen these values to be critical in the past, they will become even more important in the future!

As adopted by the 90th Grand Chapter, Philadelphia, PA, July 22, 2000

The Five Objectives for a Phi Kap

From the 22nd Edition of Skull Sessions: The Membership Manual of Phi Kappa Sigma:

As a Member, Phi Kappa Sigma expects you to assume responsibility in the areas of scholarship, fraternal affairs, financial obligations, personal conduct, and contribution to your college community.

Scholarship

The first and foremost ideal of Phi Kappa Sigma is the pursuit of academic knowledge. The primary goal of each Brother is the attainment of a college education. Each member has an obligation to continually maintain a sound academic record. This is an obligation that he owes to his family, his Brothers, the Fraternity, and himself. Since its conception, Phi Kappa Sigma has emphasized scholarship and academic excellence. Initiation into, and participation in the Fraternity is dependent upon maintaining a respectful scholastic average. Therefore, throughout your college career, the pursuit of academic endeavors should be continued diligently.

Fraternity

Phi Kappa Sigma is not just another college club or organization, it is a lifelong commitment. Each member should be thoroughly acquainted with all aspects of the Fraternity, both internationally and locally. During the New Member education period, each future Brother should strive to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the operations of the Fraternity and should not hesitate to seek additional information on all aspects of the Fraternity.

Once initiated, each member must make a commitment to Phi Kappa Sigma, not just to his Chapter, but Internationally as well. The Chapters of the Fraternity are only as strong as its members. Each Brother is expected to participate actively in Chapter government, finance, recruitment, and New Member education, throughout his time as an undergraduate member.

Personal Conduct

Phi Kappa Sigma is a Brotherhood of gentlemen. One of the basic tenets of the Fraternity is that Brothers conduct themselves in a respectful manner at all times. Members should be gentlemen at all times, particularly in conduct, manners, dress, morals, and speech. Ungentlemanly activity should be avoided, so as not to bring shame to oneself, one’s Chapter, or the Fraternity. Keep in mind, you are a part of a large organization, therefore, everything you do reflects not only on you and your Chapter, but also on Phi Kappa Sigma as a whole.

Financial Commitment

Each Chapter is a small business that is dependent on each member for existence. Each individual, from New Member to Chapter president, must meet his own financial obligation in a prompt and timely manner, or the success of the Chapter could be jeopardized. The Constitution and Acts of the Fraternity clearly state that any member who fails to honor his financial obligations promptly can be expelled from the Fraternity.

College/University

There has always been considerable discussion concerning the role of fraternities at institutions of higher learning. Phi Kappa Sigma has always maintained that fraternities are an integral component of higher education, one of immeasurable value. Chapters of the Fraternity, located throughout the United States and Canada, have always strived to maintain a cooperative atmosphere with the institution at which they are located. The Chapter and its members should strive to live up to the ideals of the institution. Mutual cooperation and participation in the educational and cultural programs are the foundation of good Fraternity-College relations.